Irish Open 2011

Its a great shame that the Irish Open tees off on the Kileen course at Killarney this week without a major sponsor following telecom oparator, 3 pulling their sponsorship in favour of Irish football. Its more of a pity as "three" recent Major winners from Ireland tee it up tomorrow along with Padraig Harrington, winner of "three" Majors as well.Its their loss but the show does go on thanks to support from the European Tour and local sponsors Liebherr, Waterford Crystal, Irish Examiner and main sponsor Discover Ireland. And what a show for what Colin Montgomerie calls "the most knowledgeable and appreciative spectators on the European Tour". They will be that again this week and very vociferous too as they cheer on Rory and Darren following their success at the last two Majors. 4 Irishmen in the field who are winners of Majors !!! Incredible stuff.
Rory goes off the 5/1 favourite. Cannot be backed at that price but he could just do it you know. Of the other "three",(and that enough of the puns and free advertising for a company that shouldn't be getting a plug here) I really do think Padraig will be up for this. Ok he is not at his best this year but he is playing better than he did in 2010 and he gave Ross Fisher a fright on Sunday here 12 months ago closing with a 64. If Padraig gets a good opening round under him the Irish crowds will inspire him and he could be the one to beat. 18/1 with Boylesports (who are paying 6 places along with Paddypower) is great value and has to be taken.
Alex Noren won for us last week, rewarding the "keep the faith" strategy so that would mean I would keep the faith with Ross Fisher this week, defending champ and course record holder. But I wont be on Ross this week although I think he is about to click but reason being for not backing him here is that the defending champion is very hard to back winning again.Hopefully Ross keeps that elusive win for the WGC or USPGA! Instead I really do fancy the chances of his compatriot, Simon Dyson @ 22/1 with Paddypower (25's with others but the extra place is worth taking). His confidence is soaring after some solid weeks lately, especially at Sandwich and Kileen will suit him. I expect him to be challenging again this week.
Third selection is Chris Wood, despite an indifferent spell the past few months. He was top 5 finisher here last year and will have fond memories of that which could be the spur to kick on for the remainder of the season. 40/1 is just about right with Paddypower.
My final selection has to be Peter Whiteford who I have been very impressed with over the past 5/6 weeks. Beautiful swing, very composed and is due a real good showing soon and his game will suit this week. 50/1 with Paddypower also.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w P.Harrington @ 18/1 Boylesports

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w S.Dyson @ 22/1 Paddypower

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w C.Wood @ 40/1 Paddypower

TIP 4: 1 pt e/w P.Whiteford @ 50/1 Paddypower